AN POST has paid tribute to the Irish Defence Forces in a new range of stamps.

The 60c set of four depicts the branches of the force – army, navy, air corps and reserve.

Since 1958, when a group of 50 officers was assigned to peacekeeping duties in the Lebanon, the Irish Defence Forces have served with distinction overseas including in the Congo, Cyprus, the Sinai, Bosnia and Herzegovina and now Syria.

Speaking at the launch of the set, Chief of Staff of the Irish Defence Forces, Lieutenant General Conor O'Boyle said: "I am very appreciative to An Post for this special commemorative set of stamps . . . they symbolise the ethos of Oglaigh na hEireann – Defending, Protecting and Supporting, at home and overseas."